Industry Views

If dentists are the architects of the mouth, then it does us well to work with the best “interior designers.” In dentistry, as in life, our reputations precede us and can also reflect on our business associates. For example, Pinhas is widely known as a world-class technician, making not “just teeth” but using his expertise and craftsmanship to create works of art for each patient.

At NADL’s V21 conference there was much discussion and many questions related to FDA’s rules for CAD/CAM milling of implant abutments. As a follow-up to JDT’s January article the following are answers to the most common questions that were asked.

According to research by the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL), only four states in the U.S. require dental technicians to be certified or obtain continuing education. In order to increase awareness of the lack of standards in the dental industry, NADL created the “What’s In Your Mouth?” campaign to inform patients that their dentists might use technicians that lack the skills and knowledge they should have.

When FDA began studying the use of CAD/CAM in dental laboratory technology, the FDA’s initial focus was on angulation and the implant/abutment interface. FDA ultimately made clear statements that anyone making the implant/abutment interface is a “manufacturer” as such must obtain 510(k) clearance to do so…

The recent advancement of zirconia abutments has offered an esthetic choice for the restoration of dental implants. The number one concern offered with this type of abutment material is strength. A recent study published in the Christianson Report had some interesting conclusions…

Once I was done with college, I did what every independent young man would do; I went to work for my dad. I had the privilege to work side by side with my dad for almost 15 years. I was trained by a true master in the art of dental technology. We discussed many topics over those years and to this day…

Tallahassee, FL: At the recent ADA Annual Session, the ADA House of Delegates passed Resolution 52. This resolution says “Resolved that in order to enhance dental patient health and safety, the ADA urges all state dental boards to register U.S. dental laboratories”. The culmination of ADA taking this step has been more than ten years […]

By Kelly Soderlund, ADA News staff Many dentists don’t know if their state requires dental laboratories to register with state dental boards or if the lab they work with is registered. In fact, according to the 2008 Survey on the Use of Dental Labs, conducted by the ADA Health Policy Resources Center, more than half […]

The U.S. Senate showing uncommon bi-partisan support, last night overwhelming passed a budget amendment expressing strong support for repeal of The Affordable Health Care Act’s, better known as ObamaCare, 2.3% medical devise tax. The non-binding amendment to the annual Budget Resolution passed 79-20, with 33 Democrats and one Independent joining all Senate Republicans in passing the measure. […]

Regulators expect compliance by Sept. 23 By Craig Palmer, ADA News staffMost covered entity dental practices will need to review and revise their HIPAA compliance policies, procedures and documents such as Notice of Privacy Practices and Business Associate Agreements to comply by Sept. 23 with regulations effective March 26, the Association told subscribers to the […]